Salter Brothers Hospitality reach major sustainability milestone

Ecotourism Australia has advised that Salter Brothers Hospitality have reached a major sustainability milestone with four of their Southeast Queensland Spicers Retreats securing Sustainable Tourism Certification.

The retreats - Spicers Tamarind Retreat, Spicers Clovelly Estate, Spicers Peak Lodge and Spicers Hidden Vale - achieved Sustainable Tourism Certification through Ecotourism Australia by demonstrating their strong commitment to environmental, socio-economic, cultural and responsible management principles, by implementing global best-practice sustainable tourism standards to achieve certification.

Chief Executive Elissa Keenan said the commitment by the four Spicers Retreats was outstanding and noted “travellers are increasingly demanding more environmentally friendly stays that give back to local communities, and Spicers Retreats absolutely reflect this philosophy in everything they do.”

Salter Brothers Hospitality Chief Executive Tash Tobias shared “today marks an incredible milestone for Salter Brothers Hospitality as we celebrate the Sustainable Tourism Certification of four of our Queensland properties by Ecotourism Australia.

“This recognition is testament to our commitment to responsible tourism and the hard work of our dedicated teams. By protecting and honouring our natural surroundings, we’re able to create experiences that not only inspire our guests but also safeguard these precious environments for generations to come.

“Our journey doesn’t end here – it only strengthens our resolve to lead with integrity and sustainability in everything we do.”

Salter Brothers Hospitality has integrated numerous sustainability initiatives throughout its properties, including partnering with community and conservation organisations, repurposing food waste, sourcing local produce, and providing accessible rooms for guests.

Keenan added “we congratulate Spicers Tamarind Retreat, Spicers Clovelly Estate, Spicers Peak Lodge, and Spicers Hidden Vale for achieving Sustainable Tourism Certification, joining over 100 Ecotourism Australia-certified hotels and resorts across Australia who meet global best-practice standards.

“It is wonderful to see the accommodation sector lead the way in integrating sustainability across a wide range of environmental and social impact initiatives. For example, Spicers Peak Lodge partners with Vanguard Laundry, a socially responsible linen supplier, and features Leif bathroom amenities, which are eco-friendly, plant-based, and made in Australia.

“We look forward to continuing to support Salters Brothers Hospitality in their sustainability journey.”

Properties that obtain Sustainable Tourism Certification from Ecotourism Australia are now able to add their certification to their Booking.com listing, in recognition of the certification meeting global best-practice standards.

Achieving certification is a rigorous process, involving over 200 key criteria across the four pillars of sustainability and strong business practices. To achieve global best-practice Sustainable Tourism Certification, it can take up to twelve months and includes an independent third-party audit before certification is awarded. Hotels must demonstrate ongoing commitment, with periodic independent audits required to maintain certification.

Image.Spicers Hidden Vale Grandchester QLD aerial view. Credit: Ecotorism Australia